Although the book was written by two Japanese authors, they were heavily influenced by the theories of the Austrian psychiatrist, Alfred Adler. Born in 1870, Adler is considered the father of individual psychology. He believed that people often suffer due to an inferiority complexthey develop as children. Adler’s goal was to help his patients overcomethese feelings so that they can live life to the fullest.
Adler was against the idea that our past determines our present. He believed this way of thinking limits future growth. So, he told his patients to focus on future goals instead. This allowed them to shape their own future without limitations. Adler also felt that the fear of other people’s opinions holds many people back in life. He encouraged people to have the courage to design their own lives and disregardwhat others think.
The Courage to Be Disliked is perhaps the best introduction to Adler’s teachings. The authors make his ideas easier to understand for modern readers. As such, readers can put Adler’s teachings to work after each chapter as they work to improve their lives.
